Taperssection.com

Gear / Technical Help => Battery Boxes, Preamps, Mixers, ADCs, and Processors => Topic started by: pohaku on November 10, 2016, 07:26:29 PM

Title: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on November 10, 2016, 07:26:29 PM
Just a heads up, Pueblo Audio, a maker of really nice studio microphone preamps, is in the process of designing and manufacturing a battery powered microphone preamp.  They are also designing and manufacturing a battery powered DI box, which will be the first product out.  You can find the discussion string on GS:

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/remote-possibilities-acoustic-music-location-recording/1107671-battery-powered-preamp.html

The web site is: http://www.puebloaudio.com/index.html

In an off board conversation, Scott at Pueblo indicated that he was also working on a stripped down model specifically for the Taper market.  Battery life on his prototype Pre was 50 hours with phantom running to a Schoeps mic.

It sounds like this might be available in the first half of next year.

Given the declining number of separate battery powered preamps available to us, this sounds very  interesting - especially since it is coming from an existing manufacturer of well regarded studio preamps and will be tailored to the Taper community.  While a lot of us have moved to all in one recorders, I still appreciate having the option of running a really good preamp or two in front of my recorder for some shows.


Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on November 13, 2016, 12:09:59 PM
Thanks for the posting and the link!
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on November 19, 2016, 03:32:56 PM
Just put a deposit down on a unit, so I am hoping to pick one up out of the initial production run.  Pueblo pres keep company with Gordon, Forssell and Pendulum products.  I'm really interested in seeing/hearing this unit.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on November 20, 2016, 02:37:08 AM
More info on the upcoming Pueblo preamp:

As of this writing, the ISLETA design is planned to offer 0dB to +80dB of gain, full-spec Phantom Power, and transformer-balanced floating outputs. Depending on microphone powering needs, battery life will sustain for 48-72 hours!  The price is projected to be $1,099 USD (batteries and charger not included).  Size will be approx. 6"x8"x2".   In addition, the design is being leveraged to accommodate an even more affordable "lite" version.  This version would offer unbalanced outputs, omitting the output transformers.  Price for the lite version is projected to be approx. $799.  All prices and features are subject to change.

Scott at Pueblo is interested in hearing what the Taper community might want in a battery powered preamp.  Right now, the "lite" version is the model oriented towards our community.  I have suggested that he also provide a mini jack output.  He thinks he could also lower the price by using less expensive non-stepped pots (the standard model pots are stepped).   That might get the price down to $599 - $699 or so for a high end two channel preamp.  Batteries are extra, but he is building this to use easily replaceable, commercially available off the shelf batteries at @$39 each.

So, if you have suggestions and ideas about what you would like to see in a pre, now is the time to let him know.

FWIW, I have no affiliation with Pueblo.  I just want to see a good pre get developed.

Thanks! 

Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on November 20, 2016, 11:19:26 AM

Thanks again for the update!

Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: OOK on November 20, 2016, 11:51:04 AM
I really like the two pot approach I can use on my SD702..  one pot for gain the other pot for adjusting balance, as apposed to two gain pots. 
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: goodcooker on November 20, 2016, 12:11:57 PM

Pueblo has an interesting approach where they make the power supplies and phantom supplies for their rack mount preamps as all separates. Even on their two channel pre that has the phantom power onboard you have to jumper the P48 to the mic input. I guess anywhere you can eliminate noise is a good thing.

My suggestion would be to have combo XLR/TRS ins and outs if you have the room in the case and to include an unbalanced 1/8" TRS output. Lots of hobby tapers use handhelds with mini inputs.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on December 18, 2016, 12:25:02 PM

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/12318887-post73.html

Quote:
Have you decided yet if the XLR In/Out will be on the rear or the side of the unit?

Hi,

The plan is for side mounting. Since portable recorders often have their xlr on the sides it seemed practical to follow suit. Side mounting also simplifies manufacturing thereby increasing affordability of the final product. I am open to further ideas on the matter...

In addition to the transformer-balanced main xlr outs, there will also be an auxiliary unbalanced output on 1/8" mini trs jack. This is a separately buffered, tranformerless output; akin to the Aux Outs of the standard Pueblo range. Useful for feeding a back-up recorder, cue sends, etc.
__________________
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: Hypnocracy on December 18, 2016, 04:28:29 PM
The prototype seated on a Tascam HS-P82

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/299/31613523991_e6481ef66f_b.jpg)
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: noahbickart on February 05, 2017, 01:15:34 PM
Any update on this?
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on February 05, 2017, 02:54:40 PM
Targeted for second quarter.  Hybrid DI box is coming first.  May have adjustable input impedance.

Preliminary measurements:

Gain Range: 0dB to +80dB [all gain, no pads]
Gain Matching: ±0.1dB between any channel, any box
EIN: -131dB [gain=+60dB, 50Ω source, 20-20kHz, unweighted]
Max Input or Output: +30dBu [unity gain, 10k load]
Freq. Resp.: 1Hz-200kHz [-3dB], 10Hz-40kHz [±0.1dB]
Common Mode Rejection: >110dB [50Hz, +60dB gain]

GS discussion thread is here:

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/remote-possibilities-acoustic-music-location-recording/1107671-battery-powered-preamp.html


FWIW, I do have one on order (I ordered the standard box, not the lite version) and would be happy to report on it once I get and have a chance to put it through its paces.  I believe a few other folks here also ordered one, although I am not sure which models.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 06, 2017, 10:30:52 PM
Sweet thanks for the info man :) Looks like a really HQ preamp that I'd LOVE to run a few times :)
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on March 22, 2017, 03:59:54 AM

An update from Pueblo.  DI box is now launched.


"With that project launched, attention can now be focused on completion of
the ISLETA.  The circuit design is all worked out.  The main task ahead is
now the design for the chassis.  Attached below is a conceptual drawing of
the
ISLETA front panel.

Standard Features:
1.  Power On/Off switch
2.  LED indicator of battery condition.
3.  Phantom Power switch
4.  Input Impedance Selector: 3k/13.6k (custom values below 13k
available)
5.  +2.5dB to +60dB, 24 position Gain Switch.  2.5dB per step.  ±0.1dB match.
6.  Second stage gain can provide selectable +20dB, for a total max gain of
+80dB.
7.  Main XLR output: ultra-high performance transformer balanced output.
8.  Auxiliary 1/8" Stereo mini-jack: unbalanced transformerless output.

Price is still targeted at $1099 (batteries and charger not included).
The final chassis design will have a significant influence on the ultimate
price.

More information to come.  Thanks for your continued interest!"


Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on March 22, 2017, 06:49:48 PM
A lite version without transformers is still planned for $799.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: jbell on March 22, 2017, 06:57:38 PM
Any pics??
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on March 23, 2017, 02:34:41 AM
Here is a working prototype.  You can also look at the new DI box on the same site to get a sense of the design aesthetic.  They included some artwork with the update e-mail, but it wouldn't copy for posting.  I have the transformer model on order.  I believe a couple other members here do as well.

http://puebloaudio.com/isleta---battery-preamp.html

Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on March 25, 2017, 11:51:48 AM
^
Thanks for the update!
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: noahbickart on March 26, 2017, 11:12:52 PM
here's the pic from the email.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on May 23, 2017, 08:19:04 AM
here's the pic from the email.

Any update on the release date for this pre?   :)
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on May 28, 2017, 09:35:09 AM
here's the pic from the email.

Any update on the release date for this pre?   :)

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/12642001-post110.html

Hi David & All,

Apologies for delayed updates. This band from Ireland has been monopolizing my attention for the last few months with 30th anniversary projects and such.

Because of the above I have not only neglected ISLETA news, but also overlooked announcing on GS that our new OLLA Hybrid DI Box was released last month! I am very pleased with how it turned out (pic attached). Great versatility, faultless sound quality, and sweet looking stainless-steal construction. Gratified to be receiving happy, positive feedback. In its first month, over half the first production run has already been sold off.

Back on topic, the ISLETA circuit board is designed and parts have been purchased and stocked. Completing a great chassis design is the last challenge. At this time I have aim on late 3rd quarter.

Thanks for your continued interest and patience
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: waltmon on June 01, 2017, 04:45:02 PM
...joined string
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 13, 2017, 03:32:06 AM
I can't wait to see the Isleta when its finished! The prototype looks like its in the same case as the Naiant MidBox to me. Obviously just a prototype, but I love that they're focusing on a small 2 channel battery powered version geared towards US tapirs for a change ;D

Thanks for the link yinz guys!
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on June 13, 2017, 11:12:58 AM
While it will be portable and battery powered, I don't expect it to be either tiny or light (especially if you order the trafo version).  More geared to open taping rather than stealth methinks.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on October 29, 2017, 12:36:50 PM

I sent an e-mail to Pueblo Audio today requesting an update on the timeline for the release of the ISLETA.  I'll post their response when I receive one.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on November 05, 2017, 02:10:03 PM

I sent an e-mail to Pueblo Audio today requesting an update on the timeline for the release of the ISLETA.  I'll post their response when I receive one.

Thanks to pohaku for passing this on to me:

From: "Scott Sedillo - President, Pueblo Audio Inc." <scott@puebloaudio.com>
Sent: Friday, October 6, 2017 5:50:47 PM
Subject: ISLETA Newsletter 06Oct2017

Dear Isleta Followers,
The effort continues to perfect the chassis for Isleta.  It is proving to be a challenge to design and fabricate a chassis that is strong, lite weight, ergonomic *AND* affordable.  Add to that an unexpected, yet welcome upturn, in orders for our existing products plus my intimate involvement with a little band from Ireland's upcoming world-wide release, and well...  its just taking longer than I would have expected to complete this product.

But continue it does.  Investments in R&D, parts stock, etc. are well into tens of thousands so we are committed.  Have no fear, ISLETA will be born!  I am very excited for this product.  Though I say it myself, I do believe this will be a game changer.  I do not know any product that will deliver the feature and extreme audio quality will being completely off the grid for days on end.  Attached is a rough drawing of the side view showing the main outputs and 1/8" stereo aux out.  Also a picture of the prototype in a production sound bag, on location for a documentary shoot.

Good things to come for sure.

All the Best,

Scott Sedillo
President, Pueblo Audio, Inc.
626.755.7210  scott@puebloaudio.com




Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: jbell on June 27, 2018, 04:31:05 PM
Is this still going to happen!!   :shrug:
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on June 27, 2018, 07:37:55 PM
Allegedly.  Still waiting.  Bought a V2 to tide me over.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on August 24, 2018, 10:40:53 AM

I sent an e-mail to Pueblo Audio today requesting an update on the timeline for the release of the ISLETA.  I'll post their response when I receive one.

I submitted another e-mail this morning requesting an update on the release date of the ISLETA.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: Ronmac on January 28, 2019, 09:17:35 AM
Just saw this posted on Gearslutz... https://www.gearslutz.com/board/showpost.php?p=13771520&postcount=144

Forum member "NorseHorse" posted the link below testing the Isleta prototype using a pair of MKH40 (you can also see an unused pair of Sanken CO100-K on the stand). It sounds amazing, even though it was captured in a pretty crappy room.

https://youtu.be/k1pAXToNqQQ


A 4 channel version (if it is offered) will be an instant buy, for me!
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: noahbickart on January 28, 2019, 11:10:40 AM
Wow, looks really big to me for a 2 channel preamp....
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: Ronmac on January 28, 2019, 11:42:18 AM
Wow, looks really big to me for a 2 channel preamp....

Yes, but the space is needed for internal battery pack and input/output transformers. The stepped gain controls are also likely to take up more space than typical pots.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on January 28, 2019, 11:57:21 AM

I hope that I'm wrong about this but I'm not optimistic that we'll ever see this pre.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: jbell on January 28, 2019, 04:07:08 PM
I think you are correct!!


I hope that I'm wrong about this but I'm not optimistic that we'll ever see this pre.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: noahbickart on January 28, 2019, 04:16:04 PM
Wow, looks really big to me for a 2 channel preamp....

Yes, but the space is needed for internal battery pack and input/output transformers. The stepped gain controls are also likely to take up more space than typical pots.

Oh I'm sure it all makes sense for a location classical type. But for me and my taper needs it's just too big.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on January 28, 2019, 05:20:52 PM
The prototype does look at least V3 size or so.  That looks like the same prototype that was being displayed a year ago.  May or may not be what is finally put in production (assuming we eventually get there). May still be ok if you are open taping and don’t mind lugging some gear.  Clearly not attractive for stealthing.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: stuartprovine on February 13, 2019, 03:04:45 PM
Is it odd that Pueblo no longer has the Isleta listed on the website?  I put a deposit down, and I'm not exactly feeling encouraged by this.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on February 13, 2019, 03:52:18 PM
Is it odd that Pueblo no longer has the Isleta listed on the website?  I put a deposit down, and I'm not exactly feeling encouraged by this.

You should contact Pueblo and ask for a refund.  Refunds were issued months ago, which was pointed out to me by pohaku.  I don't think that you'll have a problem securing your refund.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on February 13, 2019, 06:26:12 PM
Yeah, they even paid some interest on the refund.  They may have just missed you.  I believe that occurred with dactylus and they refunded him.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: pohaku on February 13, 2019, 06:28:31 PM
Actually, their entire site seems to be down at the moment.  Nonetheless, you should have been refunded months ago.
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: stuartprovine on February 14, 2019, 01:10:54 AM
Gentlemen, thank you for the heads up on this.  I didn't realize that Pueblo had stopped development on the unit.  I just emailed Scott about a refund.   

With gratitude,
Stuart
Title: Re: New Pueblo Preamp Coming
Post by: dactylus on April 10, 2019, 07:42:23 AM
Gearslutz post from Scott yesterday:



https://www.gearslutz.com/board/remote-possibilities-in-acoustic-music-and-location-recording/1107671-battery-powered-preamp-6.html#post13916633


Hello GS'ers,

It is true that I have had to suspend the ISLETA project. There are a number of reasons for this reluctant decision. The most significant of which is economic sustainability.

Consider that Pueblo Audio (a very small company) manufactures not one... not two... but SIX flagship products. Four models within the JR-Series product range and two within the OLLA DI product range. The effort required for building, maintaining inventory, sales, promotion, accounting, client and dealer relations, etc., is very formidable. With recent changes in costs for raw material and taxation, it became evident that adding a seventh product to the line would over extend the company. I have invested much $$$ and R&D into ISLETA and feel this is will be a "hit product". None the less, it must wait until economic and market climates are more favorable. For now ISLETA must remain in hibernation.

One step I am taking to help sustainability is that the four channel JR4 and P4 models will become inactive when current stocks are sold out. This will help reduce inventory work load and hopefully make room for ISELTA in the future. So if anyone has been interested in these particular models, now may be the time to pick them up before they're gone.

The JR-Series preamps will continue on with the JR2/2 two channel preamp and the PS34 power supply. Though I have not officially announced this, I will let you know about a new development. In tandem with the standard JR2/2, this summer I shall offer an upgraded version: the JR2/2+. Added to the Phantom Channels will be a gentle 35Hz Hi-Pass Filter. Added to the Mic Preamp Channels will be a Gain Boost switch which adds +15dB of gain to the Main Outputs, bringing the total max gain to +80dB. These new features were implemented without disturbing the preamp's established high performance.